The Los Angeles Clippers and Cleveland Cavaliers have intensified talks on a potential James Harden-Darius Garland trade, Chris Haynes reports.
Credit: AP/Scanpix nuotr.
NBA insider Chris Haynes reports that the Los Angeles Clippers and Cleveland Cavaliers have ramped up talks on a potential James Harden-Darius Garland trade, with both sides motivated to complete a deal relatively soon.
Harden has been instrumental in the Clippers’ dramatic season turnaround after a 6-21 start. In 44 games this season, he is averaging 25.4 points, 8.1 assists, and 4.8 rebounds while shooting nearly 42 percent from the field.
Garland, on the other hand, has struggled with injuries all season. He missed the first seven games recovering from offseason toe surgery and has been sidelined since January 16 with an ankle sprain. In the games he has played, Garland is averaging 18.0 points and 6.9 assists per game.
Harden holds significant leverage in any trade scenario. While he does not have a formal no-trade clause, his contract requires his approval for any deal this season. Last offseason, he signed a 1+1 deal with the Clippers.
His 2026-27 player option is worth $42.3 million, with only $13.32 million guaranteed, giving him substantial control over his next move.
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